Runners World's 12 Best Running Sports Bras

Runners World has released its list of the 12 best sports bras for running after testing more than 45 different models over the past year. The publication's testers, representing band sizes from 28 to 40 and cup sizes from A to F, evaluated each bra for comfort, breathability, mobility, and support during running and other workouts.

According to the source, the selection process was as rigorous as for running shoes and treadmills. The team focused on preventing discomfort, chafing, and sweat pooling. Bras were sorted into three main categories: adjustable, pullover, and pocket bras.

Top Picks by Category

The source named specific bras as the best in various categories for runners. The list is based on testing for high-impact support.

Detailed Reviews of Adjustable Bras

The lululemon Run Times Bra was named best for long runs. Testers found it comfortably compressive and encapsulated, with sweat-wicking fabric and a mesh panel for breathability. One tester wore it on a 35-mile trail run in the Adirondack Mountains through heat and rain. The bra reportedly performed well without getting swampy. The source states it is especially good for women who have lost breast volume, as it cradles each breast anatomically.

The Old Navy PowerSoft bra was highlighted for being easy to put on and take off, featuring a front zipper. Its adjustable cross-back straps and PowerSoft fabric are noted for comfort and moisture-wicking. The source praises its broad size range and price, often marked down below $25 from a $40 full price. It was also reported as sensory-friendly for autistic testers.

The Runderwear Power Running Bra offers a highly customizable fit. Its unique feature is a dual adjustable strap in the back, allowing fit adjustments for support and band space. A tester with a rib flare from pregnancy found it more comfortable due to this adjustability. The source notes a potential issue: those with pronounced lat muscles might experience rubbing during pull-ups.

Insights on Other Key Models

The Patagonia Shadowlite is designed for sensitive skin. Its flat-locked seams are coated to prevent rubbing. Senior Features Editor Pavlína Černá said, "The bra gave me a very secure feeling without restricting my breathing-I forgot I was wearing it." The band has internal ribbing to prevent rotation, and the tester reported getting three runs from it before washing.

The Champion Spot Comfort was noted for durability. It features gel-cushioned straps, mesh panels for ventilation, and molded cups. The back has a hook-and-eye closure. The source advises sizing up, as the fit was found to be snug. It launders well without pilling or stretching.

The lululemon Energy Bra provides lift and separation with foam cups that go up to size DDD. It has crisscross straps in the back that stay in place. Some testers reported it runs small, suggesting ordering a size up. It offers three points of adjustment.

The Oiselle Queen Bra has a convertible back. It provides full coverage with a longline underband and thick, adjustable straps that can be worn crisscross or H-back. The band has four hook-and-eye closures. A tester, Bridget Hughes, said, "I felt really supported and it kept everything in place without being overbearing." The source also suggests possibly sizing up in the band.

The lululemon Go Further Bra was tested during an ultrarunning campaign where women ran an ultra over six days. The source describes it as buttery soft with plenty of lift, having undergone over 2,000 miles of ultrarunning testing.